James Ralph Aulbaugh III
About James
Biography
Board Certified Criminal Defense Attorney. Former Chief Felony Prosecutor.
James Aulbaugh is one of the most sought after trial attorneys in the State, representing individuals in the Texas and Federal criminal justice systems, from initial investigation through trial.
James Aulbaugh is a graduate of Texas A&M University (B.S. A. Economics), the Texas Tech University Rawls College of Business (Master of Business Administration) and the Texas Tech University School of Law (Doctorate of Jurisprudence).
After law school, James Aulbaugh served as an Assistant District Attorney in the Dallas County District Attorney’s Office for 13 years. During that time, James was assigned thousands of cases to prosecute, ranging from misdemeanors to Capital Murders. Outside of trial, James quickly developed a reputation for reasonableness, acute case analysis, fairness, and integrity while plea bargaining over a thousand cases and dismissing hundreds more. While in trial, James is known to be exceptionally well prepared, critically analytical, and incredibly persuasive to both Judge and Jury. James has participated in over 120 jury trials. As lead prosecutor, James never lost a capital felony trial, first degree felony trial, second degree felony trial, or third degree felony trial.
James held a number of leadership positions while at the Dallas County District Attorney’s office, including Felony Chief Trial Court Prosecutor and Misdemeanor Division Deputy Chief Prosecutor, where he was responsible for the oversight and training of 35 prosecutors. James was also tasked with the training of rookie police officers at numerous municipality police academies in the skills necessary for successful prosecution.
In July 2021, James left the District Attorney’s office to establish the Aulbaugh Law Firm. James now uses his skills, resources, and expertise in the defense of those accused of crimes and those injured by another’s negligence.
As of 2021, of the 106,591 attorneys in the State of Texas, James Aulbaugh is 1 of only 800 attorneys who are Board Certified in Criminal Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization.
Notable Cases:
State of Texas vs. David Rickerson – Result: Life Sentence
State of Texas vs. Jeremy Ward – Result: 80 year sentence
State of Texas vs. Leonard Mornes – Result: Life Sentence without Parole
Practice Areas
5
Practice Areas
18 years | 1,500 cases
18 years | 800 cases
18 years | 25 cases
Fees and Rates
Cost
Always
Payment Methods
- Cash
- Credit Card
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Chat withLicenses
Licensed in Texas for 17 years
State: Texas
Acquired: 2008
No misconduct found
Location
The Aulbaugh Law Firm
3300 Oak Lawn Ave., Suite 700, Dallas, TX, 75219
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James Ralph Aulbaugh III's Reviews
Avvo Review Score
69 Client Reviews
Showing 1 - 5 of 12 reviews | Communication Style
Posted by John | November 28, 2025 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense
Great guy. Gets shhh done
James is an outstanding attorney. He kept solid communication with me for six months and always made sure I knew what was going on. Thanks to his work and attention to my case, my grand jury case was rejected. He’s professional, sharp, and reliable. I’d recommend him to anyone who needs someone they ...
Posted by Dmytro | September 08, 2025 | Hired Attorney
Great Lawyer!
James has been an exceptional guide throughout my case. His deep knowledge of the law, meticulous attention to detail, and consistent responsiveness gave me confidence every step of the way. He explained complex matters clearly, always kept me informed, and truly went above and beyond to protect my i...
Posted by Deborah | March 20, 2025 | Hired Attorney | Lawsuits & Disputes
James is the best!
James was there for me every step of the way. He took the worst time of my life and made it so much better. He never judged or looked down on me. He always answered all my questions promptly and checked on me often. He explained everything to me every step of the way where I could understand it. He g...
Posted by anonymous | October 22, 2024 | Hired Attorney | Lawsuits & Disputes
Thank you!
James expertly managed every aspect of my case with remarkable precision. He provided clear guidance on what steps to take, ensuring that I stayed on track throughout the process. I placed my full trust in him as my attorney, and by following his advice, I was able to remain out of trouble and fulfil...
Posted by anonymous | September 05, 2024 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense
Diligent and Professional Action by James Led to No Charges Filed
When I found myself in a scenario that I never imagined that I would be faced with, I had a close friend recommend James. James calmed my concerns, listened to everything that I had to say, and walked my through what we was going to defend me against a potential federal case. I received regular up...
James Ralph Aulbaugh III's Lawyer Endorsements
"James & I worked together for several years in the 194th in Dallas Co. I was a Court Probation Officer & he was an Assistant District Attorney. I learned a ton from James & eventually became a criminal defense attorney myself & still value the knowledge I gained from him while we worked together. His work ethic, character, & listening skills are top-notch. He's pragmatic & flexible. His experience as a prosecutor in multiple roles is priceless & gives him a serious edge in criminal defense. Don't hesitate to choose James as your advocate."
"I endorse this lawyer. James is an excellent attorney who cares about his clients. I highly recommend him."
"I endorse this lawyer. Excellent attorney who will fight for justice."
"James' work ethic is top notch and he works tirelessly to achieve great results. I endorse this lawyer."
"I've worked with and against James on previous cases. He is always extremely prepared and very knowledgeable of the facts and issues of his case. Always very smooth and comfortable in the courtroom. A client would be well served by his representation. I endorse this lawyer."
"James is thorough and will represent you well. His knowledge of the law and familiarity with the system makes him a force to contend with. And on top of that, he is honest and will take your case seriously"
"I've known James for almost 15 years. He's a hard worker, and takes his cases and clients seriously. He cares about his clients, and has the trial and courthouse experience to serve his clients well. I endorse this lawyer."
"James is well respected throughout the courthouse. He is always prepared and never afraid to tackle difficult issues. As a result, he is a fantastic advocate for his clients."
"I endorse this lawyer."
"I endorse this lawyer with no reservation. An extremely, knowledgable talented and well respected attorney in the legal community. Very hardworking and diligent. Consistently achieves superior results. Advice is always practical and on point. I recommend to anyone."
"I have known James for years and worked as opposing counsel on cases where he was the prosecutor. He was always intelligent, well-prepared, fair, and ethical. I am sure James will bring the same level of intelligence and preparedness combined with compassion for his clients to his criminal defense practice. I cannot recommend James highly enough."
"I've known James for 10+ years, he is a great lawyer. I endorse this lawyer."
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense lawyer
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Criminal defense lawyer
Criminal defense lawyer
Criminal defense lawyer
Criminal defense lawyer
Criminal defense lawyer
Criminal defense lawyer
Criminal defense lawyer
Criminal defense lawyer
Criminal defense lawyer
Criminal defense lawyer
Criminal defense lawyer
Criminal defense lawyer
Criminal defense lawyer
Criminal defense lawyer
Criminal defense lawyer
Criminal defense lawyer
Criminal defense lawyer
Experience
Honors
2021
AV Preeminent Rated, Martindale-Hubbell
2021
Client's Choice, Avvo
2021
Top 100 Trial Lawyers, National Trial Lawyers
2018
Ten Year Service, Dallas County
Work Experience
2021 - Present
Managing Partner, The Aulbaugh Law Firm, PLLC
2008 - 2021
Assistant District Attorney, Dallas County District Attorney's Office
2007 - 2008
Assosicate, Bourland, Wall & Wenzel, PC
Associations
2021 - Present
Dallas Criminal Defense Lawyers AssociationMember
2021 - Present
Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers AssociationMember
2021 - Present
Dallas Bar AssociationMember
2021 - Present
Collin County Criminal Defense Lawyers AssociationMember
2008 - 2011
Dallas Bar AssociationMember
2008 - 2021
TDCAA - Texas District & County Attorney AssociatiMember
Sample of Legal Cases
No Bill by Grand Jury
80 year sentence
Conviction with Life Sentence
Life Without Parole
30 years imprisonment
Education
2007
Doctor of Jurisprudence/Juris Doctor (J.D.)
2007
MBA - Master of Business Administration
2005
BS - Bachelor of Science
Speaking Engagements
2019
Publications
Languages
English
Activity
Legal Answers
Legal Answers
Can criminal charges be dropped if the person pays for the damages?
18 Aug 2021
Did I have a right to be read my rights at the time of my arrest?
18 Aug 2021
What happens when you don't follow your probation second time and catch another charge?
19 Aug 2021